Page 60 of Counterpoint
“Dominic,” Dom said, voice shaking slightly. And yeah, he was blushing. “I’m Adrian’s—” Boyfriend? Lover? Submissive? What was he to Adrian?
Thankfully, Adrian filled in the gap. “This is the gentleman I’ve been seeing.”
Gentleman.That was a far cry from Domino. And yet, also not. Perfect. It was kind of perfect. Adrian’s gentleman.
His face heated even more. “We bought one of your photographs,” he blurted out. “Well, I guess not your photographs, but...” Dom waved his hand and closed his mouth. God, he was babbling.
Adrian’s hand slid to the small of Dom’s back, warm and soothing. “Your rope work is masterful, as always.”
“Flattery. Det’s artistry always makes mine look better.” Her smile was warm, and directed at Dom. “But I am glad you appreciate it.” She returned her gaze to Adrian. “And if you ever wish to learn more, my door is always open for you and your gentleman.”
Fire up Dom’s spine. His cheeks must be glowing by now. Maybe his whole face. He kept his mouth closed, because who knew what would come out of his brain now?
Again, Adrian took the lead. He nodded deferentially. “Thank you for the offer.”
She touched Adrian on the arm. “Good to see you, Adrian.” She held out her hand for Dom to take, which he did. “And a pleasure to meet you, Dominic. But I don’t wish to keep either of you from your day.” She gave him a gentle squeeze, then let go before slipping past them into the other room of the gallery.
When they stepped back out into the bright day, Dom’s world had rearranged itself again. “That—did she really mean that?”
“Janelle doesn’t offer to teach to just anyone.” Adrian glanced at the gallery door for a moment. “Yes, she meant that.”
“Wow. Do you—? Would you—?” Dom shivered, despite the warmth of the day.
“Janelle is an excellent teacher, and yes, I would, if you were willing. But I think we should wait on that, until you’re sure you are.”
He was pretty damn sure he wanted that. The rope, the binding. To hang in the air. “The whole exhibit was amazing.”
“I’m glad you think so.” Adrian’s grin was nearly as bright as the sun.
Yeah, and there was that hint of devil in the glint of Adrian’s eyes. “What do you have planned for me?”
“Something for tomorrow. To settle you before you return to your week.”
Before he stepped back into his life and out of Adrian’s. Dom glanced down the street toward that other studio, the one that smelled of makeup and people and lights. Where Ray had laughed, Zavier had smiled, and Mish had danced on heels that had been pencil-thin.
He couldn’t even envision Domino tied up like the men and women in those photos. How could he have both these things?
Adrian touched his cheek, his smile dimming. “I wish you would tell me.”
Dom’s whole being snapped back, and he looked into Adrian’s eyes. “You said there were secrets we could keep.”
Adrian nodded and rubbed a thumb over Dom’s chin. “I did. I meant it.”
“I can’t yet.” Might not be able to in the long run.
Another nod. “Let’s go get some ice cream, then.”
Adrian didn’t bring it up again. Just held Dom’s hand as they bought cones and walked the streets and sat on the giant boulders in Central Park. Kissed his neck and mouth when they rode the subway back to Brooklyn, fed him another amazing meal, then made love to him in the bed Dom was rapidly starting to think of astheirs.
“I think we really are dating,” he whispered into the darkened room once they’d finally slipped under the sheets to sleep.
Adrian’s chuckle vibrated against Dom’s back. Hands slid over Dom’s arms. “I was hoping you’d say that.”
“Me, too.” A far cry from wanting to turn and run. He had absolutely no idea what he was doing at all.
* * *
It wasn’t until the afternoon on Sunday that Adrian followed up on his “something” comment, and it came after a long walk around Brooklyn after a breakfast out.
